As the Denver Nuggets seek to get the best out of backup center Jonas Valanciunas in 2024-25, they must not forget about returning big DaRon Holmes II. Holmes represents a bright future for a second unit in need of long-term building blocks.
A 3-and-D big who was robbed of his rookie season by a torn right Achilles tendon during the 2024 Summer League, Holmes must factor into the Nuggets' plans in 2025-26.
Denver added Holmes in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft. The intention was clear: Provide three-time MVP center Nikola Jokic with an ideal backup who has the skill set to not only offer relief, but play spot minutes alongside him.